SAT SEPT 12 2026-theGBJournal| Nigeria has condemned the deaths of two of its nationals in South Africa, calling for thorough and transparent investigations into the circumstances surrounding their killings.
The Federal Government said it was “profoundly shocked” by the deaths of Bishop Taiwo Michael Fakunle, who was killed at his residence in Kensington, Johannesburg, on 4 September, and James Uchechukwu Nwankwo, who died in Somerset, Cape Town, on 5 September.
According to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Nwankwo was killed after what it described as “gruesome interrogation techniques” by officers of the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The government said the incidents were particularly concerning amid continuing xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks targeting foreigners in South Africa.
It also questioned the conduct of law enforcement officers, saying those responsible for protecting lives and property should not be contributing to the dangers faced by foreign nationals.
Nigeria has called on South African authorities to investigate both deaths and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice.
Nigeria raises wider concerns over attacks on foreigners
The Nigerian government said the latest killings had heightened concerns about the safety of Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa.
It pointed to an existing diplomatic effort between the two countries aimed at preventing xenophobic attacks, including a proposed Memorandum of Understanding on the establishment of an Early Warning Mechanism.
Nigeria said it had signed the agreement but that South Africa had yet to do so.
The government said it had previously raised the issue of recurring xenophobic and Afrophobic attacks before the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union.
It is now considering further measures to secure greater cooperation from South African authorities, the ministry said.
Nigeria also reiterated its preference for dialogue in resolving disputes with South Africa, while stressing that the latest deaths required urgent attention.
The government extended its condolences to the families, friends and wider Nigerian community in South Africa following the deaths of Bishop Fakunle and Mr Nwankwo.
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